The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has renewed its call for the automotive industry to be at the heart of negotiations, as UK government triggered Article 50, formally starting the historic process to withdraw Britain from the European Union. As a highly-integrated sector that has maximised the benefits of the European single market, this is perhaps the most significant threat to the competitiveness of the UK automotive sector in a generation.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Triggering Article 50 has started a race against time to secure a deal that safeguards the future of the UK automotive industry. Government has committed to creating and supporting the right conditions for our industry to be successful. That means certainty in our relationship with our biggest market, tariff-free and open borders so products, parts and investment can flow freely, and continued influence over the regulation that governs the vehicles we build and drive. We will continue to work with government and our European counterparts but no deal is not an option. Now is the time for government to deliver.”
Priorities for UK Automotive in the negotiations
1. Equivalent single market benefits – Zero tariffs and no trade barriers with the EU.
2. Customs – Maintaining the arrangements and benefits the UK enjoys as part of the Customs Union, with common customs procedures.
3. Talent – Guaranteed access to talent across Europe.
4. Regulation – Continuity in rule making through regulatory harmonisation.
5. Trade – Securing the UK’s position in current and future trading relationships.
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